Multi-hub events are quickly gaining terrain as one of the possible future shapes of conferences and other professional meetings. 2020 triggered a sudden transformation in the MICE sector, especially in terms of meeting format and introducing new ways of bringing people together at a distance.
Now, it is time to turn our attention to a possible middle ground between in-person and online meetings. We are referring to “meet in the middle” or multi-hub events.
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What are multi-hub events?
A multi-hub meeting is an event that takes place in different hubs of locations. They consist of a host venue where a group of participants meet at a physical location and several additional hubs where the same model is replicated. All hubs attend the event simultaneously and are connected to each other in real-time through video-call or webcast tools. Moreover, all hubs are visible to each other and the meeting programme supports face to face interaction.
The concept originated in the early 2010s, where some meeting designers were very aware of the fluid nature of meetings and events, recognising that what works well today doesn’t have to work well tomorrow.
Anticipating the transformative effect of digitalisation and its impact on the meetings industry, they started experimenting with multi-hub format, until they saw their true potential for the future of the MICE industry.
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Some event types qualify particularly well as multi-hub meetings. This could be the case of a new conference, as the multi-hub format allows organisers to test the waters and gauge interest or attendance numbers before making a significant investment or booking a large meeting space. It can also benefit industries with a strong presence in some geographical regions since it offers a chance to connect participants in different cities and countries.
Conclusion
Event organisers are no longer limited to choosing between face-to-face meetings or digital events. Multi-hub meetings steer a middle-course option that fits within the trends of sustainable meeting formats, local connections, and interactive participation. At Congrex Switzerland, we are ready to help you design a multi-hub event that inspires participants and meets your goals. Get in touch to find out how.
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Congrex Switzerland is an internationally operating agency delivering customised solutions. This encompasses the overall organisation of conferences and meetings, including the management of hotel rooms and strategic consultancy. Annually Congrex Switzerland organises approximately 45 events with over 73’000 delegates. Amongst our clients are international associations, governmental organisations and corporations.
